The Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Delhi and Zeliangrong Welfare Association, Delhi observed the 91st Martyrdom Anniversary of Haipou Jadonnang at Nagaland House, New Delhi on 29th August 2022. The Program formally started with the lighting of Candle by Ms Linda Newmai, Social Activist and BJP leader. The Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Mr. Jangdim Gondaimei made the welcome address and Pastor Thomas Kamei pronounced the invocation prayer. The Ms Janet Riamei anchored the Program.
The Resource Person of the Program, Mr. Mathiupuang Gonmei, Social Worker presented a Paper on “Haipou Jadonang’s and its Relevance in the Present-Day Society”. He delineated the Zeliangrong Naga Movement into two phases i.e. pre-independence period and the post-independent period. He explained at length the true meaning and essence of his famous slogan, “Makaamei Rui Gwangtupuni” – broadly interpreted as the sons of the soil or the indigenous will govern themselves. While emphasizing on the relevance of Haipou Jadonang’s Movement in the present context, he passionately appealed to the audience to walk the talk and not just come to pay him respect on his Martyrdom Day as a matter of ritual. Even though Haipou Jadonang was executed 91 years ago he continues to inspire thousands of people across societies. Many of the conflicts and ills of the societies we witnessed today are the result of not following his wise dictum. When some people try to trample and suppress the rights of others, conflicts and chaos will follow. Haipou Jadonang’s philosophy is simple and plain. No matter how strong and civilized some people may claim to be, they should not interfere in the cultural and political rights of any community or nation because such interferences can result in misunderstanding, conflict and even civil war. His philosophy is even more relevant in this present-day globalized society. Every community/nation big or small should be given the opportunities to grow, govern and excel themselves and utmost care should be taken to ensure that freedom and the rights of the people are not trampled upon so that peace, development and justice can prevail in this world. Haipou Jadonang lived and died for a noble cause that has a universal appeal. People are becoming more and more conscious of their rights and freedom. Freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom to promote their cultures and traditions, freedom to preserve and nurture their lands and resources, freedom of expression and freedom of the press, freedom from corruption, etc. are some of the most important freedoms we require in this post-modern day society. If the people truly love and respect the great patriot who had sacrificed his life for the cause of freedom 91 years ago, they must continue the fight for freedom more vigorously so that the unfinished agendas of Haipou Jadonang can be realized. The British authorities arrested Haipou Jadonang and got him executed but his indomitable spirit will continue to inspire the people for generations to come. The Resource Person concluded his speech with a sincere hope that the spirit of Haipou Jadonang will continue to guide and inspire the people until all his cherished dreams are accomplished.
Speaking on the occasion, Issac Charenamai, former NSUD President called upon the people to take a collective stand against all forms of injustice and oppression. He also appeal to the Zeliangrong people to remain united and assert their rights over the lands and resources they inherit. He further said that there was no point in observing the Martyrdom Day of Haipou Jadonang if the people are not ready to embrace his visions and fight for justice. The Executives of Naga Students’ Union Delhi (NSUD) led by its President Mr. Kelhusilie Nagi also attended the Program. Hundreds of people from all walks of life including high officials from different Ministries attended the Program and paid rich tributes to the departed leader.
The Program concluded with words of gratitude from Mr. Haineube Newme, President ZSUD and Secretary of the Organizing Committee followed by the raising of the slogan - “Zeliangrong Ringtelou” by all the participants.